Ex-Sounder Le Toux an instant hit in Philly

While Sebastien Le Toux wasn’t a starter for the Seattle Sounders most of last season, he always was popular with the fans for his high-energy play and attacking style.

Sebastien Le Toux

And already it appears the Frenchman will have a chance to play a bigger role and be a brighter star in Philadelphia as Le Toux scored three goals in the Union’s first scrimmage, a 5-0 victory over the University of North Carolina on Saturday.

Le Toux was claimed by Philadelphia in the MLS expansion draft last November.

Used mostly as an attacking midfielder by the Sounders, Le Toux had one goal and three assists last season in MLS action.

The man called “Seba” by his teammates was more of an offensive force during U.S. Open Cup play, scoring three goals and seven assists, including the game-winning assist to help beat D.C. United in the championship game.

“Sebastien is a very versatile guy,” Nowak said. “He plays a bunch of positions … and there are many options for what we can do with him. We chose to give him a chance up top. We want him to get back that killer instinct.”

Sounders fans won’t have to wait long for a Le Toux reunion. Philadelphia opens its first MLS regular season at Qwest Field on March 25.